[Insights Forum] In a superposition: Disentangling quantum computing

The first quantum computer has been integrated into a supercomputer and test runs show that the technologies work together successfully. The age of quantum is on the horizon. The single largest sector that will be impacted by quantum computing is the financial services sector, with an estimated value at stake of US$450 billion. Worldwide, investments in quantum science and technology have exceeded US$40 billion. This continues to rise with the global quantum computing market size projected to be between US$45 billion and US$131 billion by 2040.  Investors, technologists and policymakers must prepare for the changes quantum capabilities will bring and decide where they stand in the face of this likely new frontier. 

Following the Australian government's investment in PsiQuantum of A$940 million, it became the world's most-funded independent quantum company in May 2024. China has invested more than US$15 billion in the field as of 2023. Despite increasing interest in quantum technology globally, the development is slow and we are far from a fully functional quantum computer. Regulators also keep a close eye on the development of the technology as it brings new cybersecurity threats with it. For instance, the UK has prohibited the export of quantum computers with 34 or more quantum bits, or qubits, and error rates below a certain threshold.

This session brings together leaders in quantum today with the aim of developing a framework under which investors, technologists and policymakers may form their views relating to this exciting new technology and refine their strategies to ensure that they are quantum-proof.  

Key Discussion Points:
1. What are the critical steps towards making IT (cryptography) systems quantum-resistant?
2. How expensive is the transition to a quantum-safe world going to be?
3. What are the potential synergies between quantum and AI? Given the proven impact that AI has had on the financial services sector, will quantum reinforce that? If so, how, and what the scale be?